Don’t put your hobbies up for sale

What’s the most interesting thing about how you spend your spare time? Do you knit hats for your cat, sculpt bonsai or read tarot cards? Whatever you do, you can bet there’s a way to monetise that interest. You could open an online store, launch an e-course or become a blogger in your niche! But do you have to? Hobbies might be your fast track to having a side hustle, but it’s also okay if your backyard beehive, home-brewed beer, or wobbly pottery doesn’t pay the bills.

Cooking with a conscience

Is it possible to eat well, reduce waste, be kind to the environment, spend less money and save time on grocery shopping? It seems like a lot to manage, but in short, the answer is yes. Hannah shares her food philosophy and how becoming a mum has made her a more mindful cook.

A punch of colour

For Pi Williams, life is joyfully bursting at the seams. For this unique Central Coast artist with three young sons and an increasing demand for her stunning textile artworks, each day is a busy bundle of wool, fabric, nature adventures and kids.

A labour of literary love

Amy Lovat is no stranger to Swell. Her work has graced the pages of this magazine many times before as one of our regular writers. This time around though, instead of being the one asking the questions, Amy’s the one answering them. Strange as this may feel for her, it might just be a position Amy needs to get accustomed to following the recent launch of her highly anticipated debut novel, Mistakes and Other Lovers. Swell chats to Amy to find out more.

Barrington Hideaway

Nestled high above the banks of the Barrington River is Barrington Hideaway – a beautiful rural retreat perfectly suited to families, couples or large groups. Whether you’ve got a special occasion coming up, desperately need to drag the kiddos away from their screens or just want to press the pause button for a minute and indulge in a cosy weekend away – the Barrington Hideaway Cottages are calling your name.

Celebrate National Science Week in Newcastle and surrounds

National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology and is held annually in August. Featuring more than 1000 events around Australia, including those delivered by universities, schools, research institutions, libraries, museums and science centres, it’s one of Australia’s largest festivals. Here’s a round up of what’s happening in Newcastle and surrounds.

The pursuit of playfulness

Remember when you were a kid, and you played every chance you could? Then you grew up, life got serious and next thing you know, it’s all just work and bills and boring things. Well, this is why we’re taking a look at adult play and finding out just what roller skating has to do with it all.

A beacon of creativity

Sitting on top of Nobbys-Whibayganba Headland, is Nobbys Lighthouse, one of the most iconic landmarks in Newcastle – but it’s not just ships it’s guiding in. These days the lighthouse is home to Hunter Writers’ Centre initiative, Lighthouse Arts, and its artist-in-residence program. Swell speaks to Katherine McLean, Hunter Writers Centre and Lighthouse Arts director, to find out more.

A modern legacy

When her grandfather’s leather tools serendipitously came into her possession, Millie Harvey was determined not to let them gather dust. Combining her background in industrial design and interests in slow fashion and simplified living, she created Tamboon Leather Co – a modern brand built on age-old values.

Observations from a former cat hater

I used to hate cats. You might think hate is a strong word to use, but in this setting it’s the best way to describe my strong dislike for the feline species. Being highly allergic was the biggest contributing factor, but I also just found cats to be largely unlikeable. Cold, unfriendly, snobby even.

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